As the 2027 governorship election draws near, Owerri and Okigwe zones are intensifying their efforts to produce the next governor of Imo State after Governor Hope Uzodimma.
Both zones are making compelling arguments rooted mainly in political equity.
Okigwe Zone recently convened a stakeholders’ meeting at the country home of businessman, Tony Chukwu in Ehime Mbano,
The meeting saw leaders from across the six local government areas of Okigwe reaffirm their support for Uzodimma’s administration and advocate for thei zone’s claim to the governorship in 2027
A key point of their argument is the assertion that Okigwe gave the second-highest number of votes in Uzodimma’s 2023 re-election, second only to Orlu, and that the governor had promised to support the zone with the highest votes in 2023 to produce his successor.
The key point of the stakeholders’ communique highlighted their commitment to peace, development, and fairness, which underscored Okigwe’s long-standing loyalty to Uzodimma’s administration.
Meanwhile, Owerri Zone is also mounting its case with the backing of the Owerri Zone Political Leaders Forum (OZOPOLF).
At a well-attended meeting hosted by Prince Charles Amadi,(Chavon) at the weekend, leaders from the nine local government areas in Owerri zone emphasized their demand for political equity, citing decades of marginalization.
OZOPOLF leaders highlighted their progress in mobilizing for it’s project, engage political stakeholders, and foster unity within the zone.
The forum also reiterated their support for Uzodimma while urging the governor to choose a successor from Owerri zone to address the historical imbalance in political representation.
Both zones remain steadfast in their campaigns, with Okigwe leaning on voter loyalty and promises from Uzodimma, while Owerri calls for equity and inclusivity.
